Past PTYC Commodore Jim Daubenberger, passed away at Victoria Place in Port Townsend on April 13. He was known for a century of life filled with service, community, friends and love of family.
Jim graduated from PTHS in 1942 and, with WWII in full swing, he joined the Navy and served on Subchaser 1042 in the South Pacific Theatre. Following the end of the war, Jim returned home to PT, married his wife Donna, and purchased the famous Hill Top Tavern from Donna’s father. Jim & Donna also purchased a clothing business in 1955 and called it Daubies. The business thrived until the couple’s retirement in 1983.
Jim was a member of PTYC and served as commodore in 1966. He is best known for launching Port Townsend’s sailing legacy. Starting with two small sloops he convinced the membership to sponsor a sailing program. Two 10’ sailing dinghies were funded by the Kiwanis Club, and the program purchased two more boats a year later. Jim and his good friend Glenn Abraham volunteered their time to teach sailing classes for nearly 20 years. In recognition of his long-standing service to the sailing community, in 2014 the Wooden Boat Foundation presented Jim with a Lifetime Achievement Award.
Jim was a long-time volunteer firefighter, a lifetime member of the PT Elks, and a member of Kiwanis. He spent many years volunteering for Habitat for Humanity working at the store and moving furniture until he turned 90.
Jim’s Memorial Service Sunday will be Sunday, May 3rd from 2-4pm at the NWMC. Donations may be made to Habitat for Humanity EJC, NWMC, or Jefferson Healthcare Hospice.